The Orava Forest Railway, along with the Kysuce Forest Switchback Railway, is one of the
last preserved narrow-gauge switchback railways in the world. This technical monument is
nowadays one of the most visited tourist attractions in Orava, offering an unforgettable ride
through stunning natural scenery.
The railway originally served to transport timber from the Orava forests. Nowadays, it has
been adapted for sightseeing tours. Visitors have the opportunity to experience how forest
transport once operated in challenging mountainous terrain using a switchback system.
Trains depart from the valley, from the Tanečník station, which is located approximately 6 km
from the village of Oravská Lesná. Visitors will also find an exhibition documenting the history
of the forest railway, a children's playground and an aviary with peacocks.
The 3-kilometre-long track leads to the summit station of Beskid Saddle (Sedlo Beskyd),
which lies at an altitude of 935 metres. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. You can
enjoy the journey from a motor draisine or a panoramic carriage pulled by a motor
locomotive.
At the Sedlo Beskyd station, you can take a break and climb the viewing tower for a beautiful
panoramic view of the Orava countryside. The train then heads back down into the valley.
The entire sightseeing tour, including the break, takes just over an hour.
How to get there?
The Orava Forest Railway is located approximately 6 km from Oravská Lesná. Follow the
information signs from the main road passing through the village to reach your destination.
Parking
There is a parking lot at the railway station.